Online Reporter
Herald Reporter
HARARE Mayor, Councillor Jacob Mafume, has committed to building on last year’s achievements, even as the city fell short of its ambitious vision of turning the capital into a world-class city by this year.
This follows widespread criticism regarding Harare’s failure to provide essential services such as water, transport, waste management, and energy. The target set in 2014 is now out of reach, with residents expressing frustration over the city’s lack of progress.
Many have noted a decline in service delivery, rather than the anticipated improvements.
Despite these challenges, Clr Mafume remains optimistic about Harare’s future.
“We are a resilient and resourceful nation. We are looking towards 2025 to consolidate and deepen the progress that we have made this year,” he said.
Clr Mafume reaffirmed his belief in Harare’s status as the leading city in Zimbabwe. “Harare is the go-to city for most people in Zimbabwe. We must make it not only a destination of choice, but also a place where people can achieve their dreams, live in peace, and work in hope.”
The city is presently facing significant revenue leakages, with reports indicating that only US$100 was collected from tuckshops between January and April last year.
In contrast, the city managed to collect ZiG185 741 819 from tuckshop fees between April and September 2024, following a resolution requiring compliant tuckshops in residential areas to pay fees.
Clr Mafume described the revenue discrepancy as “unacceptable” and pledged to hold the responsible department accountable for the lapses.
